The 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has reached its decisive phase, with only three matches left — two semifinals and the final. After four weeks of intense contests, dramatic turnarounds and surprise results, the final four teams have been confirmed.
Defending champions India remain in the hunt to retain their title, alongside South Africa, England and New Zealand. All knockout matches will now be played in India, adding to the excitement as the tournament nears its conclusion on home soil.
The first semifinal will feature South Africa against New Zealand, with both teams eyeing a spot in the final. The second semifinal promises a high-voltage clash between India and England. The winners of these matches will meet in the final to decide the 2026 world champion.
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ICC’s special rules for semifinals
Keeping potential weather disruptions in mind, the ICC has scheduled reserve days for both semifinal matches. However, efforts will be made to complete games on the original match day itself. If required, matches may be shortened by reducing overs.
To avoid relying on reserve days, the ICC has also allotted extra time. On the scheduled match day, up to 90 minutes of additional time is available. On the reserve day, 120 minutes of extra time can be used. For a valid result, both teams must bat for at least 10 overs each.
If play carries over to the reserve day, the match will resume from where it stopped. If overs were reduced on the original day, the same revised number of overs will apply on the reserve day.
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If no play is possible at all on the scheduled day, a full 20-over-per-side match will be attempted on the reserve day. However, if a result still cannot be achieved even after the reserve day, the team with the higher standing in the group stage will advance.
Both semifinals are scheduled to begin at 7 PM IST. If moved to the reserve day, play will start at 3 PM IST.
